Parenting can sometimes feel like juggling a million different things simultaneously. From making breakfast in the morning to coordinating doctor’s visits, it often feels like there isn’t enough time in the day to care for your child and yourself. One way you can help create a little peace of mind is to learn about pediatric hearing issues and what you can do to prevent and manage them, allowing you to put a game plan in place if your child needs a little extra help. Let’s take a look at a few common pediatric hearing issues and what you can do to approach childcare in a stress-free way.
How Common Are Pediatric Hearing Issues?
Two common pediatric hearing issues include:
- Hearing loss. Approximately 9% of children ages 6-19 have a low or high-frequency hearing loss of at least 16 decibels.
- Auditory processing disorder (APD). Between one and two children per 1,000 have APD, a condition that presents very similarly to hearing loss.
How Can You Manage Pediatric Hearing Issues?
Hearing loss and auditory processing disorder present similarly but require different treatment approaches. Let’s delve into each condition’s symptoms and treatment options.
Hearing Loss
Your child will likely have received an infant hearing screening at birth. While screenings can help identify newborn hearing loss, it is still wise to schedule regular hearing tests for your child to identify loss that can occur later in life as a result of illness, genetics, physical trauma and more. A few hearing loss signs to watch out for in your child include:
- Delayed language skills
- Not responding when someone calls their name
- Trouble hearing over background noise
- Abnormal speech
- Asking for abnormally high music or TV volumes
- Not paying attention to conversations
If your child’s hearing exam reveals a degree of hearing loss, your audiologist can help walk you through the best treatment options to prevent language delays. Treatment options may include hearing aids, cochlear implants, auditory training and more.
Auditory Processing Disorder
APD is a condition where the brain cannot interpret auditory signals as easily as it should. While APD often presents with the same symptoms as hearing loss, the issue of understanding sound arises in the brain rather than the ears. While there is no known cure for APD, exercises and therapy can help your child manage the condition.
Speech therapy focused on building auditory skills is one excellent option to help your child manage their APD without adverse side effects. With successful therapy, they’ll get back to enjoying easy fun with their friends at Torrance Park in no time.
Managing your child’s hearing loss or APD doesn’t need to be an added stressor in your life. With the help of one of our trusted specialists, you can rest easy knowing your child’s hearing health is well looked after. Contact Torrance Audiology today to make an appointment for a hearing assessment and treatment evaluation.